Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Highways are packed with drivers heading to see family and friends, and the last thing anyone wants is a breakdown on the way to dinner. If you’re planning a road trip during the holiday, giving your car a proper inspection beforehand can save you a lot of trouble. Even if your vehicle seems to be running fine, there are a few things worth checking to ensure it stays that way over a long drive.
Here’s why a pre-trip inspection is more than just a good idea: it’s smart planning.
Tires Can Make or Break Your Trip
Your tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road. If the tread is worn or your tire pressure is too low, you may experience poor handling, increased fuel consumption, or even a blowout. Check for uneven wear, visible damage, and tread depth before heading out.
Don’t forget to check the spare tire as well. If you do need it, you’ll want to be sure it’s inflated and ready.
Battery Trouble Is a Common Holiday Surprise
Cold mornings and extended periods of parked time can be hard on an aging battery. If your battery is more than three years old or if you’ve noticed slow cranking when starting your car, it may be on its way out.
A simple battery test can tell you if it’s still holding a strong charge. Catching a weak battery before your trip is much better than waiting for it to die in a hotel parking lot or gas station.
Check the Brakes Before the Traffic Hits
Holiday traffic means more stop-and-go driving than usual. That puts a lot of strain on your brakes, especially in unfamiliar or congested areas. If you’ve noticed any squeaking, grinding, or a longer stopping distance lately, it’s a good idea to have your brake pads and rotors inspected.
A technician can also check brake fluid levels and condition. These small checks add up to safer driving during busy travel periods.
Fluids Keep Everything Moving
Oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid are all vital to keeping your car running smoothly. Low or dirty fluids can lead to overheating, reduced performance, or visibility issues.
Make sure your oil is clean and filled to the proper level. While you're at it, check that your coolant is ready for colder temperatures and that your wipers are in good condition for fall weather.
Lights and Wipers Are Often Overlooked
With shorter days and unpredictable weather, your visibility during Thanksgiving travel is more important than ever. Check that all headlights, brake lights, turn signals, and interior lights are working properly.
Worn-out wipers can leave streaks or miss large portions of your windshield, reducing visibility in rain or snow. Replacing them before a long trip is a simple way to stay safe.
Don’t Ignore the Dashboard
If you have any warning lights on, especially the check engine light, tire pressure light, or brake system warning, now’s the time to address them. These lights are your car’s way of telling you something needs attention, and ignoring them before a long drive can lead to larger problems down the road.
A quick scan can help identify issues early and prevent a small problem from turning into a roadside emergency.
Give Yourself Peace of Mind With a Pre-Trip Inspection at TDC Automotive LLC in West Memphis, AR
Before you pack up and hit the road, schedule a pre-Thanksgiving inspection with TDC Automotive LLC in West Memphis, AR. Our technicians will check your battery, tires, brakes, fluids, and more to make sure your vehicle is ready for holiday travel.
Don’t leave anything to chance — let us help you enjoy a safe, stress-free trip this Thanksgiving.
